Tag: matthew dennis

THE final round of the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) Men’s Premier League regular season threw up a host of one-sided results, with an anticlimactic top of the table clash headlining the shock scorelines heading into finals.

Tiwi stormed into third place with a resounding win over cellar dwellers, St Marys to open a super Saturday of NTFL football. The Bombers were at their lethal best forward of centre, with stars Austin Wonaeamirri and Jason Puruntatameri each bagging four majors, joined by Simon Munkara (three goals) as multiple goal kickers. The percentage gained in the 87-point drubbing was enough to put serious pressure on fellow finals contenders, Waratah and Darwin in the day’s next fixture, and ended up being more than enough to see Tiwi snatch a bronze placing. Despite the exploits of the usual Bomber suspects up forward, Christian Burgess was named best for the winners, with Nathan Djerrkura not far behind in continuing his awesome late-season form. St Marys finally succumbed to the wooden spoon spot in the final round after holding out for so long, with the effort left to too few. Jack Long put in a best-on shift for the Saints, backed by Ben Rioli and Nick Yarran in another low-scoring effort. Baden Nicholls and Mathias Liddy shared St Marys’ four goals evenly as the only Saints to trouble the scorers – which has been a sore spot for the side all season. While St Marys’ season is over, Tiwi storms on into what could well be a fruitful finals campaign, with the Bombers looking like one of the competition’s two form sides. They face Southern Districts on Saturday after a disappointing week for the Crocs, and will fancy themselves a huge chance of going deep this year.

A ten goals to one second half helped Waratah impressively account for Darwin, setting up an immediate rematch in the first round of finals. The Warriors spread the goals around with a massive 11 individual goal kickers – including six with multiple majors. Henry Kerinaiua led the way with a bag of four, while Tom Toma, Sam Godden, Cameron Barrett and Zach Westerberg (all two goals) made up the remainder of the best handful of players. Their opponents simply fell away after the main break, but the Buffs showed enough in the first half to suggest they can trouble the Warriors next time around. The brilliance of Adam Sambono deep forward put two goals on the board, while young gun Malcolm Rosas showed off his typical flair with a classy goal on the back of a spinning one-handed pick up. Still, the absence of considerable experience for Darwin has culminated in a disappointing back end of the year, as the Buffaloes now look to pick the pieces back up and break through for an unlikely win. The clash next week should prove a better contest than this one, but Waratah will come in with untouchable confidence on the back of its comfortable win.

Nightcliff put a strong statement on its minor premiership, clinching the honour in a top-of-the-table drubbing to earn a week off on top of its double chance. The Tigers blew their nearest rivals away in a 90-point victory, including 12 goals to one in the second half to consolidate the ladder position they have held since Round 13. Ten Tigers managed to claim goals, with four of them bagging three majors and Brodie Filo leading the way with a game-high four to be named best afield. Competition leading goal kicker Trent Melville (three goals) brought his tally to 55, but missed out on being named in the best to the likes of 2019 best and fairest Phillip Wills and runner-up, Simon Deery. On a down day for the Crocs, Michael Mummery (four goals) booted almost half of his side’s total score, while Jess Koopman and Charlie McAdam were also dangerous without much opportunity. While Nightcliff earned a well-deserved rest, the Crocs host a red-hot Tiwi side with just as much of a scoring threat as their weekend opponents. With its title defence taking a small dent, expect Southern Districts to come out firing in the business end of the competition.

A rollercoaster season came to an end for Palmerston on a dour note, going down handily to Wanderers to close out the home and away season. Given the Magpies’ finals hopes were all but over coming into the bout and Wanderers were playing to escape bottom, this game was put down as a relative dead-rubber – but produced an entertaining contest. In another second-half landslide, the Muk Muks came out 44 points to the good of their opponents after opening a slimmer four-goal buffer in the first two terms. The three-pronged inside 50 threat of Joel Jeffrey, Dillen Brown, and Beau O’Connell set up a good base for the Eagles to work off, and Palmerston simply could not scrounge the score required to keep up. Mark Williams and Alwyn Davey were the only Magpies to register multiple goals, with Michaelis McMasters named their best and Matthew Dennis boasting another placing in the best to bring his total to 17 in 18 games. The win drags Wanderers away from the cellar door for the first time since Round 5 in the round that matters most, while Palmerston ended up in sixth – four points away from a finals berth.

THE penultimate round of the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) Men’s Premier League sets up an exciting end to the home and away season, with first place yet to be decided, three teams still vying for third spot, and two teams looking to avoid the wooden spoon.

Tiwi handed Darwin its third straight loss in the opening game of the weekend, drawing level with the Buffs on points heading into the final regular season round. The Bombers could only manage a one-goal lead at the opening and main breaks, but ruthlessly broke the game open in the third term with 6.0 to establish a game-winning lead. The 20-point buffer proved a bridge too far for Darwin, going down by 16 points and adding to what reads as a concerning pre-finals form line. While the returning Adam Sambono (four goals) made it look easy in front of goal for the Buffaloes, his teammates had a more troublesome time of it – as the 8.15 scoreline would suggest – with Jarrod Stokes the only other to bag multiple goals. Patrick Boles was named best-on for the third-consecutive time, with consistent Buffs teammates Joe Anderson and Kevin Maroney also important in the losing effort. The clinical Bombers had no such issues inside 50 as Austin Wonaeamirri and Ross Tungatalum helped themselves to four goals apiece, while Adam Tipungwuti contributed two of his own. Ex-AFL player Nathan Djerrkura was again named amongst the best for the winners, with Jason Puruntatameri providing a solid hand as Tiwi look to be one of the bigger finals threats. While Darwin hold onto third place by a handy four per cent, both Tiwi and Round 18 opponents, Waratah could overtake them altogether and prevent consecutive bronze-placings if they lose another.

A last-ditch St Marys fightback was not enough to prevent Palmerston from keeping its near-impossible finals mission alive, as the Magpies earned a 23-point win to secure a minimum of sixth place. A steady start saw Palmerston push out to a three-goal lead by the half-time break, but four third-quarter goals saw the margin break to 37 . points heading into the last turn. The Saints made sure to make their opponents earn the four points with four goals in reply during the final stanza, but the winners steadied with two of their own to consolidate the final margin of almost four goals. Kyle Emery was again the focal point inside 50 for Palmerston with three goals, bringing his season total to 39, while Samuel Talbot chimed in with two as the only other multiple goal kicker. Matthew Dennis‘ remarkable season continued as he was named in the best alongside the likes of Talbot, Ezekiel Frank, and best afield, Liam McDonald. St Marys had three players boot two majors, with Heath Moloney and Ben Rioli among them to also be named amongst the best for their efforts. Anthony and Jack Long were also thereabouts in the losing effort, injecting a level of excitement to the game. While finals is out of the question, St Marys’ fate is not quite sealed, with the possibility of falling to last spot if Wanderers get up in Round 18 and the Saints lose. Meanwhile, Palmerston is clawing onto hope of a big win against Wanderers in the final round, while hoping that Darwin can beat fifth-place Waratah handsomely enough to level the percentage.

Southern Districts remains a chance of snatching top spot in the final round, keeping a persistent Waratah side at bay to run-out 36-point victors. An even start did not deter the Crocs, but the fifth-place Warriors also made a game of it in the second a third terms with good efficiency, while also forcing the reigning premiers to work for each score. As has been the case for this season’s lowest scoring side, the Warriors just were not able to put a winning score on the board and match opposition firepower. Jess Koopman and Josiah Farrer each slotted three goals to lead the way for Southern Districts, with Ed Barlow pushing further forward in his two-goal effort. While the likes of Michael Mummery and Bradley Vallance also hit the scoreboard, it was Seb Guilhaus and Steve Rusca who were named amongst the best. Henry Kerinaiua matched the goalkicking efforts of Koopman and Farrer with his three, as Shem Tatupu joined him with multiple goals for the Warriors. As is often the case, Zach Westerberg and Abraham Ankers stood up for Waratah to be named in the best half-dozen, with Nicholas Gooch also influential. Despite the loss, Waratah plays off for third against Darwin and has all but sealed its finals spot, while Southern Districts sets up a play-off for top spot against Nightcliff to close out the season.

The race for top spot is set to go down to the wire despite another regulation Nightcliff win, as the Tigers accounted for Wanderers in their top-verses-bottom clash to see out the round. A strong start proved the difference as a 20-point quarter time lead only narrowly eclipsed the 16-point final margin, with a five-goal second term the highlight for the Muks Muks. An even spread of eight individual goal scorers was capped by Hugo Drogemuller‘s bag of three for Nightcliff, but Simon Deery‘s efforts saw him named best for the table-toppers. Aaron Motlop matched Drogemuller’s haul, with Shannon Motlop claiming two and the returning Davin Ferreira also hitting the scoreboard. Joshua Wilson was named Wanderers’ best though in the gallant effort, marking his first appearance in the best this season after 14 games. While Nightcliff’s fate at one end of the table is up for grabs in Round 18, the Eagles face a similar situation as they play off to avoid last spot. They face a Palmerston side keen for a big win, while second-bottom St Marys play Tiwi in a fixture with strong finals ramifications.

THE penultimate round of Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) action could prove key in the race for spots at either end of the ladder, with top spot still up for grabs and places between third and sixth in the air as the final five remains undecided.

Both Darwin Buffaloes and Tiwi Bombers will be looking to bounce back from Round 16 losses and strengthen their respective finals spots when they meet in the round’s opener. The Buffs fell embarrassingly to bottom side, Wanderers last time out in a game where they sorely missed the firepower of Adam Sambono and leadership of Matthew Campbell. They may well rue lacking that scoring influence again here given Tiwi’s potency forward of centre, despite leading goalkicker Ross Tungatalum (35 goals) only managing one major last week and next best, Dion Munkara (24 goals) currently absent. While the Bombers’ hot run of form and streak of four wins came to an abrupt end last week, they will be keen to knock Darwin off to complete the feat of beating the competition’s top three sides. It is now a question of whether Tiwi peaked a few weeks too early, while on the other hand, the Buffaloes look yet to have peaked as they constantly fall to sides below them despite overcoming Southern Districts twice recently. This may well prove to be a shootout between two sure finals contenders who can beat anyone on their day, with undeniable talent forward of centre on both sides.

Palmerston will be looking for a considerable percentage boost in a last ditch effort to scrape into finals as it clashes with second-bottom, St Marys in Saturday’s evening game. The Magpies suffered a humbling loss at the hands of Nightcliff in their last outing, not doing any favours to their record as the side with the most points conceded. While it was much of the same for the Saints as they went down to Southern Districts, a win could see them dash Palmerston’s finals chances and leapfrog them into sixth place with one foul swoop, while also keeping away from the cellar door. Despite conceding the most points of any team, Palmerston may not be troubled so much down back as their weekend opponents have scored the second-fewest points across the year. Still, the consistency of Ben Rioli alongside the dual-threat of Nathaniel Paredes and Nick Yarran streaming forward could cause some serious headaches for Palmerston. The Magpies have weapons of their own though, with Matthew Dennis putting in a giant season in the ruck, while Kyle Emery (36 goals) is always a chance of kicking a bag. Former-AFL experience may also be a factor in this clash, with the figure of Raphael Clarke always steadying for the Saints, while Palmerston will look to Alwyn Davey for a spark. While it may well be a low-scoring affair, this clash looks to be a close one with neither side at the peak of their powers.

A chance to consolidate finals places is up for grabs when Waratah and Southern Districts do battle under lights on Sunday, with both sides coming off strong wins in the previous round. While they may have looked somewhat out of sorts recently, the Warriors remain a key finals contender and affirmed that notion by downing the in-form Tiwi Bombers in an impressive display. Another win at the weekend would finally see them confirm a finals berth, but it remains a matter of which spot they will take up from third, down to fifth. The Crocs’ finals position has been far more telegraphed throughout the season, hardly straying from the top two spots and remaining well in contention for claiming the minor premiership. While that may well be decided in the final round, the reigning premiers cannot afford to look past Waratah this week given how they look to have regained some form. Still, if the Crocs did not already look threatening enough with six players having booted over 15 goals, the newly reunited midfield partnership of ex-Bulldogs Ryan Griffen and Ed Barlow worked a charm last time out and makes Southern Districts very hard to beat.

NIGHTCLIFF v. WANDERERS
Round 17 – Sunday February 10, 4pmPSC BM Oval

A battle between first and last is set to close out the weekend’s action, with both Nightcliff and Wanderers surprisingly coming off wins coming into the penultimate round. Depending on whether Southern Districts claim a win, Nightcliff’s final-round clash with the Crocs could still decide top spot given the reigning premiers’ slight percentage advantage. But with a game in hand on their rivals, the Tigers would not be blamed for complacency here should the Crocs lose on Saturday. Wanderers will be looking to capitalise on any slip-ups, with a decent run of form giving them a chance to climb off the bottom of the ladder on points and as high as sixth if results fall their way. First-against-last fixtures seldom hold any ramifications for either side, but this one may well prove different as ladder positions remain tight going into the last two round of the season. With Nightcliff possessing the competition’s leading goalkicker in Trent Melville (51 goals), a much-needed percentage boost could be in order, but Wanderers have proven of late to be anything but a pushover and could throw a spanner in the works.

WITH two rounds left to play in the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) Men’s Premier League, the ladder is finally taking shape. While the top and bottom two sides look all but cemented, the tussle for spots from third to sixth is only heating up.

Waratah reclaimed clear fourth spot with an important win over fellow finals contenders, Tiwi Bombers to open the round. Having dropped out of the top four for the first time since Round 1, the Warriors looked like winning throughout the match after booting 5.7 in a free-flowing first term. Despite a third quarter fightback from the in-form Bombers where the margin was cut to within two goals, Waratah held on in the eight-point affair and is a lock for a finals berth. Shem Tatupu was the star in front of goal for the winners with a game-high four goals as their only multiple goal kicker, but it was Abraham Ankers who claimed a second-straight best afield honour. Zach Westerberg was also thereabouts for Waratah, while Sam Godden and Samuel Weddell where also named amongst the best having hit the scoreboard. While usual suspects Ross Tungatalum and Austin Wonaeamirri were kept quiet with just two goals between them, Pio Puautjimi (three goals) stood up to lead the efficient Tiwi forward line, with Patrick Heenan also slotting two majors as second best in the losing effort. William Puruntatameri was named best for the Bombers, with youngster Jeffrey Simon also showing signs alongside the ex-AFL listed Nathan Djerrkura. Tiwi now slips back to fifth – a game and 30 per cent clear of Palmerston, but will be confident of pushing its weekend opponent for fourth given the Warriors tough draw to see out the regular season.

Wanderers caused a massive upset in the second of Saturday’s TIO Stadium fixtures, storming out of the blocks to overcome a wasteful Darwin Buffaloes side. The Eagles set up a lead which proved unassailable in the first term with six goals to one, slotting only five more for the remainder of the game while doing their best to thwart a weakened Buffaloes attack. Wanderers’ 11.2 made Darwin’s 7.13 final score look particularly regretful, and it made all the difference on the day as the Muk Muks hung on for an unlikely 11-point victory. It was an even spread of goal kickers for the hosts, with teenage star Joel Jeffrey, Gabriel Marika and James Box all contributing two goals in a strong team effort. It was a different story for Darwin, with Patrick Boles and Joe Anderson the only players amongst seven individual goal kickers to also be named in the best. Another teen sensation, Malcolm Rosas also found the goals, but the missing flair of Adam Sambono and experience of Matthew Campbell to suspension was too much to cover for the Buffaloes. Wanderers still sit bottom despite claiming its second win in three rounds, while Darwin’s grip on third place has loosened as Waratah join them on 32 points to set up a mouthwatering Round 18 clash between the sides. Still, the Buffaloes’ strong percentage should guarantee them finals, while Wanderers would need a miracle to snatch fifth from this position.

Nightcliff looks set to storm to minor premier status as it chalked another comfortable win, and put a major dent in Palmerston’s finals hopes to see out Saturday’s triple-header. The ladder leaders held a steady lead of 28 points going into the main break, but sealed the game with two goals to nil in the third quarter, and put the cherry on top with another six majors in the final stanza to prop up the final margin to 74 points. The competition’s second-leading goal kicker, Kyle Emery played a lone hand for the Magpies with his side’s only goals (three), but missed out on being named in the best half-dozen players. James Rhodes was judged their best, with the ever-consistent Matthew Dennis and Nigel Lockyer Jnr also playing their parts in a disappointing losing effort. For the mighty Tigers, Trent Melville matched Emery’s haul to extend his lead to 15 atop the goalkicking charts, while Phillip Wills was the only other to snare multiple goals with two as he was named best afield. The Tigers will also be buoyed by the efforts of players outside their usual best, with Beau Black performing well in just his third game alongside Danny Butcher and Jonathon Miles. It may well come down to a final-round clash against Southern Districts that decides top spot, but Nightcliff look comfortable there with a four-point buffer, while Palmerston will need results to go its way if it is to snatch fifth spot.

A comfortable win has seen Southern Districts keep its minor premiership hopes alive, coming out 46-point winners over the lowly St Marys to remain just a game behind ladder-leaders, Nightcliff. While they grasped a second finals chance rounds ago, the Crocs still look hungry to claim top spot and are set to be led by a forward line close to running absolutely rampant. Leading goal kicker Jess Koopman bagged three goals alongside Michael Mummery and Dean Staunton, with Bradley Vallance (two goals) just falling short of the feat as the Crocs more than doubled St Marys’ score. The strength of Southern Districts’ forward 50 was only helped by the inclusion of ex-AFL star Ryan Griffen, who was reunited with former Bulldog teammate, Ed Barlow in the Crocs midfield. Matthew Rosier beat both of them out to be adjudged best afield, with Ben Rioli named the Saints’ most valuable player. Nick Yarran continued his rich vein of form, but it was Jacob Long (three goals) who stood up most inside the forward 50 as Tylah Saunders also slotted two majors. The Saints remain second bottom despite Wanderers’ win, with the slimmest of chances of making finals. Meanwhile, Southern Districts could well reclaim first place over the last two rounds, with a Round 18 clash with Nightcliff likely to decide the matter.

A mid-table arm-wrestle has ensued with three sides battling for the last two finals positions in the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) Men’s Premier League. Darwin will be looking to consolidate its third place, with Waratah best placed to snatch fourth as its closest competition meets the top two sides.

St Marys will be looking to steer clear of equal-last spot when it clashes with an in-form Darwin Buffaloes side to open the round. The Saints find themselves separated by percentage only to last-place Wanderers, who got the wood over them in the previous round. Darwin, meanwhile, are back on a solid winning run having knocked off Southern Districts twice in the last four rounds, while only going down to ladder-leaders, Nightcliff in that time. The inclusion of Lindsay Thomas in the new year has been key for the Buffaloes, with the former North Melbourne and Port star booting five goals last week to drag his side over the line, while livewire Adam Sambono has also fronted in the resurgence. The experience of Matt Campbell and consistency of Kevin Maroney up the field will also be important for the Buffaloes if they are to continue on their way, and the potential match-up of Darryl White against St Marys’ Raphael Clarke could be key. The Saints have been buoyed by the form of Nathaniel Paredes (three best-afield in four games), while Nick Yarran and youngster Brayden Rioli also look to be coming into form they have shown glimpses of. It looks to be an uphill battle here for St Marys given Darwin’s firepower, but four points will be crucial to them if they are to have one last tilt at the finals and keep clear of the cellar door.

WARATAH v. WANDERERSRound 15 – Saturday, January 26, 4pmGardens Oval

A spot back on the winners list is up for grabs for Waratah when it faces bottom-placed Wanderers in Saturday’s sole fixture. The Warriors have gone down in consecutive games, seeing them slip out of the top four for the first time since Round 1 in what has been a consistent season thus far. The Muk Muks are two games away from the deadlock from fourth to sixth place, but managed a confidence-boosting win over second-bottom St Marys last time out to level them on points with their most recent opponents. Neither side is particularly renowned for their prowess in front of goal, but posses key assets around the big sticks who can deliver big performances. Kim Kantilla and Sam Godden have consistently troubled the scoreboard for Waratah, while Thomas Motlop is coming off a clutch five-goal performance in last week’s win for Wanderers. Eagles fans have also enjoyed the inclusion of former-Sun Liam Patrick, but that ex-AFL talent is something that the Warriors have been short of with Michael Newton only featuring twice – booting 13 goals in those outings. With both sides keen for four points given their respective positions, expect the usually low-scoring sides to provide a greater output in front of goals to snatch the four points.

Arguably the two form sides of the competition meet when Nightcliff and Tiwi Bombers do battle on Sunday. The ladder-leading Tigers have won their last eight games, including a tight affair against Tiwi in Round 9, when the Bombers were on another winning run. The visitors have looked irresistible over the last two rounds, smashing Wanderers by over 100 points and toppling top-two fancies Southern Districts in what has been a rich vein of form, setting up what promises to be another thriller between the two sides. Nightcliff’s forward threats of Trent Melville and Matthew Bricknell continue to fire and will have to produce in this game, with Tiwi’s Ross Tungatalum and Austin Wonaeamirri booting 22 goals between them in the last three games. The midfield battle could also prove key, with Nightcliff guns Liam Holt-Fitz and John Butcher also able to hit the scoreboard from up the field. Bomber inclusions Ashton Hams and Nathan Djerrkura have added enough class to match the Tigers in that area, so we may well be set for an absolute shoot-out. With an abundance of ex-AFL talent on both lists, this could be a game we look back on at the end of the year as an NTFL classic. Playing the role of spoilers in this clash, the Tigers will hope to quell the Bombers’ surge, but this Tiwi side could make a real statement about their finals credentials with a win here.

A chance to consolidate finals spots is on the line for both Palmerston and Southern Districts when they meet on Monday afternoon to see out the round. The Magpies were unlucky not to come away with a win last week, falling narrowly to the free-scoring Darwin Buffaloes, but remain well within the hunt for either fourth or fifth spot in the finals equation. Their opponents, Southern Districts have been a constant in the top two this year and currently look to be the clear second-best side despite falling twice to third-place unit, Darwin. With both sides coming off losses, this will be a good chance for both a confidence and percentage boost respectively. Palmerston’s Matthew Dennis has been among the best players in each of his 14 games, proving to be a key cog around the ground with his big frame and admirable leadership. Having led many a finals campaign with Bundoora in the Northern Football League of Melbourne, he will no doubt continue to be a feature as the year wraps up alongside Davey brothers Alwyn and Aaron, as well as Kyle Emery up forward. The Magpies will be without Sam Talbot and Sam Autio due to suspension, with Crocs guns Beau Schwarze, Richard Tambling and Seb Guilhaus ones who can take advantage of their absence. Michael Mummery and Jess Koopman are also in good form, and will be key if Southern Districts is to flex its muscle and overpower the ‘Pies. There is a fair bit on the line for the Palmerston side, so expect them to put it right to the Crocs, who looked down last week.

A HOTLY contested round of action in the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) saw emerging finals contenders, Tiwi Bombers topple a premiership fancy, while Wanderers took a step closer to climbing off the bottom of the ladder, Darwin continued its winning ways, and Nightcliff broke out as clear front-runners with the most convincing win of the weekend.

Tiwi Bombers continued its impressive turn of form, overcoming a half-time deficit to hand reigning premiers, Southern Districts its second consecutive loss. The Bombers matched their opponents blow-for-blow in the opener to create a deadlock that was broken by just eight points in the Crocs’ favour going into the main break. But the forward firepower of Ross Tungatalum (14 goals in three games) and Austin Wonaeamirri (seven in two) proved too deadly for the second placed Crocs, being kept to just two second-half goals while conceding seven to go down by 22 points. The elite-level experience of Ashton Hams and Nathan Djerrkura was vital for the winning side, with usual suspects Adam Tipungwuti and Michael Dunn also contributing well to the cause. While they could not quite match the feats of their counterparts, Southern Districts goalsneaks Michael Mummery (three goals) and Jess Koopman (two) played their respective roles, with youngster Beau Schwarze named amongst the best for his fifth-straight outing and Seb Guilhaus also impressing. The win propels Tiwi into fourth place on percentage, equal with Waratah and Palmerston in the race for a finals spot. Meanwhile, the Crocs remain in second despite consecutive losses – two games adrift from leaders, Nightcliff and third-place side, Darwin.

A starring five-goal performance from Thomas Motlop was enough to drag Wanderers over the line in its bottom of the table clash with St Marys in the first game of Saturday’s TIO Stadium double-header. A goalless opening term did not deter the Muk Muks, with Motlop putting them on the board in the second stanza after trailing by an even four goals. With a ten-point half-time margin cut to eight going into the last break, the Eagles had a whiff of momentum and managed to take full advantage, with five goals to two edging them past St Marys in a see-sawing final quarter. The speed and silky ball movement of 2006 AFL Rising Star, Danyle Pearce was crucial for Wanderers in the latter stages, providing chances to the likes of Marlon Motlop, Liam Patrick, and Aaron Motlop – who all contributed to the scoreboard. Nathaniel Paredes was best afield once again for the losing side, booting three goals as the clear standout, alongside Raphael Clarke (two goals), who drifted further forward. Francis Kinthari was the only other multiple goal kicker, with Nick Yarran and Shaun Edwards named in the best six players for the Saints. The win sees Wanderers move level on points with its weekend opponents on four wins, remaining bottom by a sizeable percentage gap and two games away from sixth place.

Nightcliff is now one step closer to earning an automatic semi-final berth, sitting two games clear atop the ladder after comfortably accounting for Waratah to close out Saturday’s proceedings. The Tigers did not look back after opening up a three-goal buffer in the first term, slowly extending their lead as the battle wore on to come out with the eventual 56-point victory. The final margin could well have been blown out further, with the winners misfiring for 2.9 while keeping Waratah to a sole point in the fourth quarter. Matthew Bricknell snapped his run of two goalless games with a bag of three to match the feat of Tigers spearhead Trent Melville – whose season tally is up to 46. Despite the goal feats, Simon Deery was named Nightcliff’s best, Phillip Wills and Liam Holt-Fitz, who all managed to also find the goals. For the Warriors, Sam Godden was the only multiple goal kicker with two as Joel Stevens was judged their best, while Zach Westerberg and Kim Kantilla also stood up in the losing effort. While Nightcliff are sitting pretty after another win, Waratah slips out of the top four for the first time since Round 1 after loss number eight, in the middle of three clubs on 24 points vying for the last two finals spots.

An equal round-high bag of five goals from ex-AFL goalsneak Lindsay Thomas helped guide Darwin Buffaloes to a narrow win over the rising Palmerston Magpies side. Despite conceding an early lead, the Buffaloes edged in front and stayed there for the remainder of the game, with a five-goal second term setting up the 13-point victory. Excitement machine Adam Sambono backed up his four-goal effort in the previous round with another three to join Thomas as the key goal threats. Kyle Emery (10 goals in three games) was the Magpies’ best answer to that with his three, while Mishai Perry (two) rounded out the multiple goal kickers. While Thomas was clearly best-on, Kevin Maroney was again recognised for his efforts alongside Jarrod Stokes and Kelvin Williams. Matthew Dennis was unsurprisingly the Magpies’ best once again, with Samuel Talbot and Mitch Bunworth also thereabouts. Palmerston finds itself breathing down the neck of Tiwi and Waratah in the race for the last finals spot, with all sides on 24 points. On the other hand, the Buffaloes now look certain to claim a second finals chance after regaining their early season form and opening a two-game gap to fourth place.

SOME finals-defining matches will take place this weekend in the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) Men’s Premier League competition. Two sides battling desperately to grab a top five place in the Tiwi Bombers and Waratah will be tested against the top two teams in Southern Districts and Nightcliff, while Palmerston Magpies do not have it any easier, taking on the in-form Darwin Buffaloes. In the other game of the round, the bottom two sides go head-to-head in Wanderers and St Marys, with an Eagles loss all but certainly closing the door on finals chances.

The game between second and sixth never looked so enticing for those keen to head down to Norbuilt Oval on Saturday afternoon. At times this season, Southern Districts have looked unstoppable, but last week Darwin Buffaloes found the Crocs’ kryptonite in a heart-stopping one-point thriller that knocked Southern Districts off the top of the NTFL ladder. Meanwhile, Tiwi Bombers had a day out to celebrate Austin Wonaeamirri‘s 150th game with a 100-plus point victory over Wanderers to give themselves a handy percentage boost. A win her would all but likely catapult them into fifth, and possibly fourth if Nightcliff do a number on Waratah, but in saying that, the Crocs will be keen to atone for a rare loss last week and will want to take care of business at home here. Ross Tungatalum is the key player for the Bombers up forward, fresh off another big performance last week, he has 25 goals for the season, two more than fellow sharpshooter, Dionysius Munkara. The best and fairest favourite for the Bombers, Jason Puruntatameri has been named in the best for every game he has played, and looms as a danger man trying to stop the Crocs’ attack. Ashton Hams has been crucial in the Bombers’ recent form, named in the best for his three games. Speaking of in-form players, Jess Koopman had a day out last weekend with six snags against Darwin, albeit in a losing side. He brought his total to 24 majors in just seven games and is the clear leading goalkicker for Southern Districts. The Crocs do not rely on one spearhead however, as they have eight players who have kicked double-figure goals in season 2018/19. The trio to watch are Dean Staunton (13 goals), Dylan McLachlan (10) and Charles McAdam (10), all featuring among the best at times this season. Beau Schwarze has been in great form of late, and looms as another key playmaker in the match. Expect the Crocs to remind the Bombers why the former are a title contender, although the Bombers have the attack to unsettle the Crocs’ defence and continue their great form.

The first game of a double-header at TIO Stadium pits the two bottom sides against each other. Historical powerhouse, St Marys has had an inconsistent season as sweeping change has seen plenty of fresh faces join the Saints in what could be described as somewhat of a rebuild. Like St Marys, Wanderers have shown they can be competitive at times, but are often let down by momentum swings or disappointing quarters here and there. Both sides head into this game believing a win could be on the cards, and realistically, a loss would be devastating for either side. The Eagles know heading home without the four points will spell almost certain end to any finals aspirations, while St Marys would not only need a strong finish, but likely need other results to go their way in the run home if they were to snatch a finals spot. Talented teenager, Joel Jeffrey has been the star for the Eagles this season, booting 11 goals from nine games. But with AFL Academy opportunities, he has not been there the whole time, much like the Muk Muks’ second highest goalkicker, Davin Ferreira with seven goals in three games. In fact, just six players have reached double-figure games this season for the cellar dwellers, adding consistency as a challenge for the coaching staff. They had a game to forget against the Bombers last weekend, with Thomas Motlop named Wanderers’ best in a 102-point defeat. The Eagles will want to come out a lot stronger against St Marys who should not be underrated. Former Gippsland Power hard nut, Nathaniel Paredes has been the star of the side this season, averaging a goal a game from his 12 matches and named in the best eight times. Along with Ben Taylor – who has managed every game and booted six goals – the pair has been a shining light. The experienced Raphael Clarke has done his best with a young defence, while Shaun Edwards‘ spark last week was clear to see. They just need to produce more consistency in games, and if they had not conceeded a seven-goal opening term to Nightcliff, they may well have caused an upset against the now ladder leaders. St Marys head in as favourites, but Wanderers will eye this as an opportunity to grab a crucial four points.

WARATAH v. NIGHTCLIFFRound 14 – Saturday, January 19, 5pmTIO Stadium

The second match at TIO Stadium sees top-of-the-table Nightcliff hoping to maintain the pole position despite fourth placed Waratah’s best efforts. Given their closest two rivals – Palmerston Magpies and Tiwi Bombers play the other top three teams, and Nightcliff looked vulnerable at times against St Marys, the Warriors have a real opportunity to fend off the chasing sides with a win here. Victory would not only give them some breathing space, but not entirely rule them out of third place, with the Buffaloes just four points and percentage ahead of the Warriors. In saying that, Nightcliff know how important this game is, and whether or not complacency crept into the side at quarter time against St Marys – having booted seven goals to one in the opening term – they regained their composure after conceding a half-time deficit and went on to win the match. Abraham Ankers has been a key player for the Warriors this season, and from five games has booted seven goals. Raven Joliffe and Brodie Carroll are other Warriors who have stood out this season, while no doubt Waratah would have loved to have former Melbourne full-forward Michael Newton in the square, after 13 goals in his two games this season. Cameron Barrett has been the man to turn to up forward for Waratah, leading the goalkicking with 14 majors in 11 games. If you are talking about goals, look no further than Tigers’ gun, Trent Melville who has slotted a massive 43 for the season. He is 15 clear of the next closest player, and is well on his way to an easy leading goalkicker award this season. A key reason why the Tigers have been unstoppable at times, Melville has booted three goals in both of his prior appearances against Waratah this season. Matthew Bricknell (19 goals), Liam Holt-Fitz (17) and Cameron Ilett (16) are other important players in the forward half, while Shaun Wilson would be among the leading contenders for the Tigers best and fairest with Melville and Ilett. Nightcliff deservedly go in as favourites, but cannot afford an intensity drop off or they could pay against the Warriors.

The final game of the round will be under lights at Asbuild Oval as Palmerston Magpies look to tame the Darwin Buffaloes. After a loss to Nightcliff a fortnight ago, Darwin bounced back with a terrific one-point victory over Southern Districts, to remain in contention for a top two spot, and all but lock up a finals place. They take on the Magpies here who could be a danger team depending on how they front up. They knocked off the Buffaloes a month ago, but also went down to Tiwi Bombers a fortnight ago and were thumped by St Marys mid-season, so finding the consistency is important. The Buffaloes would feel the likes of Waratah, Palmerston and even Tiwi Bombers breathing down their necks, so taking out one of their closest competitors would give Darwin fans some much needed relief. They will need to find a way to stop one-man goalkicking machine, Kyle Emery who has 28 snags from 10 games, and is capable of kicking a bag. Emery has booted just two goals in their prior meetings, including being held goalless in Round 3. Emery is the only Magpie to have registered into double-figure goals this season, although former Essendon goalsneak, Alwyn Davey has eight from 10 games in 2018/19. Aaron Davey has contributed when there in his four matches, while Broderick Church and Mishai Perry also have eight apiece. The key man in the middle is Matthew Dennis who is far and away the Magpies’ best and fairest favourite, named in his team’s best every single week this season. He could loom as the man to stop in order to cut off the supply to Emery down the field. Darwin has more of an even spread of goalkickers, with regular draft hopeful, Adam Sambono leading the way thanks to 18 majors this season. Jarrod Stokes (12), Matt Campbell (12) and Chris Williams (11) are the others in double figures, while Darryl White has averaged two goals a game from his three matches. Kevin Maroney, Joe Anderson and Ryan O’Sullivan have been the Buffaloes best around the ground this season and the travelling fans will be keen to see Darwin take home the four points. Given the most recent meeting you cannot rule out Palmerston stealing an upset, but the Magpies will need to be on their game.

SOME finals-defining matches will take place this weekend in the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) Men’s Premier League competition. Two sides battling desperately to grab a top five place in the Tiwi Bombers and Waratah will be tested against the top two teams in Southern Districts and Nightcliff, while Palmerston Magpies do not have it any easier, taking on the in-form Darwin Buffaloes. In the other game of the round, the bottom two sides go head-to-head in Wanderers and St Marys, with an Eagles loss all but certainly closing the door on finals chances.

The game between second and sixth never looked so enticing for those keen to head down to Norbuilt Oval on Saturday afternoon. At times this season, Southern Districts have looked unstoppable, but last week Darwin Buffaloes found the Crocs’ kryptonite in a heart-stopping one-point thriller that knocked Southern Districts off the top of the NTFL ladder. Meanwhile, Tiwi Bombers had a day out to celebrate Austin Wonaeamirri‘s 150th game with a 100-plus point victory over Wanderers to give themselves a handy percentage boost. A win here would all but likely catapult them into fifth, and possibly fourth if Nightcliff do a number on Waratah, but in saying that, the Crocs will be keen to atone for a rare loss last week and will want to take care of business at home here. Ross Tungatalum is the key player for the Bombers up forward, fresh off another big performance last week, he has 25 goals for the season, two more than fellow sharpshooter, Dion Munkara. The best and fairest favourite for the Bombers, Jason Puruntatameri has been named in the best for every game he has played, and looms as a danger man trying to stop the Crocs’ attack. Ashton Hams has been crucial in the Bombers’ recent form, named in the best for his three games. Speaking of in-form players, Jess Koopman had a day out last weekend with six snags against Darwin, albeit in a losing side. He brought his total to 24 majors in just seven games and is the clear leading goalkicker for Southern Districts. The Crocs do not rely on one spearhead however, as they have eight players who have kicked double-figure goals in season 2018/19. The trio to watch are Dean Staunton (13 goals), Dylan McLachlan (10) and Charles McAdam (10), all featuring among the best at times this season. Beau Schwarze has been in great form of late, and looms as another key playmaker in the match. Expect the Crocs to remind the Bombers why the former are a title contender, although the Bombers have the attack to unsettle the Crocs’ defence and continue their great form.

The first game of a double-header at TIO Stadium pits the two bottom sides against each other. Historical powerhouse, St Marys has had an inconsistent season as sweeping change has seen plenty of fresh faces join the Saints in what could be described as somewhat of a rebuild. Like St Marys, Wanderers have shown they can be competitive at times, but are often let down by momentum swings or disappointing quarters here and there. Both sides head into this game believing a win could be on the cards, and realistically, a loss would be devastating for either side. The Eagles know heading home without the four points will spell almost certain end to any finals aspirations, while St Marys would not only need a strong finish, but likely need other results to go their way in the run home if they were to snatch a finals spot. Talented teenager, Joel Jeffrey has been the star for the Eagles this season, booting 11 goals from nine games. But with AFL Academy opportunities, he has not been there the whole time, much like the Muk Muks’ second highest goalkicker, Davin Ferreira with seven goals in three games. In fact, just six players have reached double-figure games this season for the cellar dwellers, adding consistency as a challenge for the coaching staff. They had a game to forget against the Bombers last weekend, with Thomas Motlop named Wanderers’ best in a 102-point defeat. The Eagles will want to come out a lot stronger against St Marys who should not be underrated. Former Gippsland Power hard nut, Nathaniel Paredes has been the star of the side this season, averaging a goal a game from his 12 matches and named in the best eight times. Along with Ben Taylor – who has managed every game and booted six goals – the pair has been a shining light. The experienced Raphael Clarke has done his best with a young defence, while Shaun Edwards‘ spark last week was clear to see. They just need to produce more consistency in games, and if they had not conceded a seven-goal opening term to Nightcliff, they may well have caused an upset against the now ladder leaders. St Marys head in as favourites, but Wanderers will eye this as an opportunity to grab a crucial four points.

WARATAH v. NIGHTCLIFFRound 14 – Saturday, January 19, 5pmTIO Stadium

The second match at TIO Stadium sees top-of-the-table Nightcliff hoping to maintain the pole position despite fourth placed Waratah’s best efforts. Given their closest two rivals – Palmerston Magpies and Tiwi Bombers play the other top three teams, and Nightcliff looked vulnerable at times against St Marys, the Warriors have a real opportunity to fend off the chasing sides with a win here. Victory would not only give them some breathing space, but not entirely rule them out of third place, with the Buffaloes just four points and percentage ahead of the Warriors. In saying that, Nightcliff know how important this game is, and whether or not complacency crept into the side at quarter time against St Marys – having booted seven goals to one in the opening term – they regained their composure after conceding a half-time deficit and went on to win the match. Abraham Ankers has been a key player for the Warriors this season, and from five games has booted seven goals. Raven Jolliffe and Brodie Carroll are other Warriors who have stood out this season, while no doubt Waratah would have loved to have former Melbourne full-forward Michael Newton in the square, after 13 goals in his two games this season. Cameron Barrett has been the man to turn to up forward for Waratah, leading the goalkicking with 14 majors in 11 games. If you are talking about goals, look no further than Tigers’ gun, Trent Melville who has slotted a massive 43 for the season. He is 15 clear of the next closest player, and is well on his way to an easy leading goalkicker award this season. A key reason why the Tigers have been unstoppable at times, Melville has booted three goals in both of his prior appearances against Waratah this season. Matthew Bricknell (19 goals), Liam Holt-Fitz (17) and Cameron Ilett (16) are other important players in the forward half, while Shaun Wilson would be among the leading contenders for the Tigers best and fairest with Melville and Ilett. Nightcliff deservedly go in as favourites, but cannot afford an intensity drop off or they could pay against the Warriors.

The final game of the round will be under lights at Asbuild Oval as Palmerston Magpies look to tame the Darwin Buffaloes. After a loss to Nightcliff a fortnight ago, Darwin bounced back with a terrific one-point victory over Southern Districts, to remain in contention for a top two spot, and all but lock up a finals place. They take on the Magpies here who could be a danger team depending on how they front up. They knocked off the Buffaloes a month ago, but also went down to Tiwi Bombers a fortnight ago and were thumped by St Marys mid-season, so finding the consistency is important. The Buffaloes would feel the likes of Waratah, Palmerston and even Tiwi Bombers breathing down their necks, so taking out one of their closest competitors would give Darwin fans some much needed relief. They will need to find a way to stop one-man goalkicking machine, Kyle Emery who has 28 snags from 10 games, and is capable of kicking a bag. Emery has booted just two goals in their prior meetings, including being held goalless in Round 3. Emery is the only Magpie to have registered into double-figure goals this season, although former Essendon goalsneak, Alwyn Davey has eight from 10 games in 2018/19. Aaron Davey has contributed when there in his four matches, while Broderick Church and Mishai Perry also have eight apiece. The key man in the ruck is Matthew Dennis who is far and away the Magpies’ best and fairest favourite, named in his team’s best every single week this season. He could loom as the man to stop in order to cut off the supply to Emery down the field. Darwin has more of an even spread of goalkickers, with regular draft hopeful, Adam Sambono leading the way thanks to 18 majors this season. Jarrod Stokes (12), Matt Campbell (12) and Chris Williams (11) are the others in double figures, while Darryl White has averaged two goals a game from his three matches. Kevin Maroney, Joe Anderson and Ryan O’Sullivan have been the Buffaloes best around the ground this season and the travelling fans will be keen to see Darwin take home the four points. Given the most recent meeting you cannot rule out Palmerston stealing an upset, but the Magpies will need to be on their game.

A TRIPLE header at TIO Stadium kicked off the weekend, with Tiwi Bombers showing no mercy against the cellar-dwelling Wanderers. Nightcliff took down a plucky St Marys side to claim top spot, as Darwin Buffaloes had a thrilling one-point win over top-of-the-table Southern Districts. In the final game, Palmerston Magpies kept their finals hopes alive with a win over Waratah.

Tiwi Bombers put the lowly Wanderers to the sword with an eye-catching 102-point victory. Twelve individual goal kickers helped the Bombers to the percentage-boosting win, which was all but decided by half-time as Tiwi piled on 10 goals to one by the main break. A more determined Wanderers side saw the losing team add three goals in the third term to the Bombers’ five, but the scoring power of the visiting side resulted in a seven goals to two final quarter to run away with the contest. Ross Tungatalum booted five goals and was named among the best for the Bombers, while 150th gamer, Austin Wonaeamirri managed four majors. Ashton Hams and Jason Puruntatameri were named as the Bombers’ best, while Thomas Motlop and Scott Meyer were the Eagles’ best. Josh Wilson and Mark White were the multiple goal kickers for the losers with two goals apiece.

A Shaun Edwards inspired second term was not enough to get the job done for St Marys who played catch-up after a dismal opener. The Saints trailed by 33 points at quarter time, before a three-goal bust by Edwards in the second stanza saw the home team remarkably hit the front as they held the Tigers scoreless in the second term. Unfortunately for the underdogs, it was not to last, with Nightcliff booting five of the last six goals of the game to record a 20-point victory and snatch top spot. The Tigers had five multiple goal kickers as they shared the goals around in the win. Phillip Willsbooted two majors and was named the Tigers’ top player, while Hugo Drogemuller (one) and Tyson Kidney were also among the best. For the Saints, Edwards’ three goals was the highlight up forward, while Nathaniel Paredes and Raphael Clarke continued their great form this season, named among St Mary’s best.

The match of the round lived up to pre-game expectations, with third-placed Darwin Buffaloes taking home the four points after a thrilling one-point win over ladder leaders, Southern Districts. The Crocs led at the first change by four points, but it was the Buffaloes who piled on seven goals to four in the second term to head into half-time with an 18-point lead. Southern Districts threw themselves back into the contest after the main break with four goals to three to cut the deficit to just seven points, a margin that could have even been in their favour had it not been for six behinds. With the Nightcliff loss fresh in their minds from the previous week, Darwin held strong in the final term as the Crocs threw everything at the Buffaloes, but fell a point short as Darwin kept its slim top two hopes alive. Adam Sambono again had a day out up forward for the winners with four goals, while Matt Campbell (four) and Darren Shillabeer (three) were also productive. Steven Anderson was named the Buffaloes’ best, while teenage talent, Malcolm Rosas was also impressive, booting a goal and was electric across the ground. For the Crocs, you had to spare a thought for Jess Koopman who slotted six goals in a losing side, while former AFL player, Richard Tambling was the best on ground for the Crocs. Beau Schwarze and Dylan McLachlan were others who stood up in the defeat.

In the standalone game away from TIO Stadium, Palmerston Magpies held onto fifth spot with a vital four-point victory over Waratah. The win meant the Magpies moved to within percentage of the fourth placed team, and also avoided Tiwi Bombers overtaking them given the Bombers had a huge triple-figure win earlier in the round. Waratah led by seven points at the first change but the Magpies booted four goals to two in the second term to head into half-time with a two-point advantage. They maintained their slim hold on the game with a four-point lead at the final break, with that margin being the final margin. The Magpies were the more accurate side with six less scoring shots, but four more points at the end of the game. Kyle Emery booted three goals for Palmerston as Broderick Church capped off some good work with two majors. Matthew Dennis, Nigel Lockyer Jnr and Mitch Bunworth were the Magpies’ best in the win, while Abraham Ankers was Waratah’s best in the loss. Shem Tatupu, Sam Godden and James Wray all booted two goals.

WITH all sides settled back in for the new year, 2019’s second round of action could see potential movement towards the bottom end of the ladder, while the game of the round pits the first and third sides against each other, which promises to be an epic tiebreaker.

Tiwi Bombers will hope to skip on to another winning run after storming back into finals contention when it clashes with bottom side, Wanderers to open the round. The Bombers find themselves just a game out of the top five after pummelling fifth place Palmerston to ring in the new year. With most of its big guns firing, Tiwi will look to the likes of Adam Tipungwuti and Ross Tungatalum to pile the hurt unto the Eagles, having combined for nine goals in Round 12. It may only take one gun to fire for the Bombers, with Wanderers continuing to struggle in front of goal. A nine-goal loss at the hands of ladder-leaders, Southern Districts and no multiple goalkickers does not make for pretty reading for Muk Muk fans, but the recent impact of Stanley Tipiloura and Liam Patrick has been promising with stars Davin Ferreira and Thomas Motlop absent. It will be a tough ask for Wanderers to halt a rolling Bombers side, especially with a finals spot looming, but they will count themselves in with a good chance.

ST MARYS v NIGHTCLIFFRound 13 – Saturday January 12, 5pmTIO Stadium

St Marys will be looking to keep touch with the top five and push away from the cellar door when it faces Nightcliff in Saturday’s evening fixture. The task will not come without challenge though, as a surging Nightcliff side’s eyes fixed firmly on snatching top spot as the regular season nears its close. The Saints’ finals aspirations were handed a blow last week as they suffered a loss to more efficient finals contenders, Waratah, but they are still well and truly in the hunt with only four points keeping them from a finals berth. The Tigers’ hunt has been much more streamline, currently sharing top spot having only been beaten twice thus far, with imperious powers up front in the form of Trent Melville, John Butcher and Michael Hagan putting unreachable totals on the board, while the engine room including Liam Holt-Fitz and Cam Ilett keeps their supply steady. All of Raphael Clarke‘s experience down back will be needed to thwart those threats for the Saints, while Nathaniel Paredes will have to be the main source of supply to goal threats Ben and Brayden Rioli if they are to stand any chance. Still, it could be an opportunity for the Tigers to get their claws out and gain a much-needed percentage boost.

Having finally bettered its rival before the break, Darwin Buffaloes will be keen on getting another leg up on Southern Districts when they do battle in Saturday’s final game. The Buffaloes’ head of steam was blown to the side last week as Nightcliff bettered them, but their form is undeniable and they should come into this game with confidence. Young star Malcolm Rosas continues to shine, with NT legend Darryl White proving a more-than-capable inclusion of late up forward. Gun midfielder Adam Sambono will look to hit the scoreboard after a more quiet display last week, helping leader Matt Campbell to put some pressure on the free-scoring ladder leaders. The Crocs were relatively unchallenged by bottom side, Wanderers last week, but did more than enough to seal the win. Consistent performers Dean Staunton and Richard Tambling will again have to lead the way, with Beau Schwarze and Michael Mummery the key exponents of x-factor. This looms as an absolute belter, and could well play out as a shoot-out as the sides come in 1-1 in the head-to-head battle this season. Do not miss.

A chance to both prove its worth as finals contenders and consolidate a spot in the top five looms for Palmerston Magpies as it faces finals bound Waratah to see out the round. While the Magpies went down to a sharpshooting Tiwi side, the Warriors put in a shift as they have done all year as they beat St Marys to pick up another vital set of four points. With the chance to go equal-fourth, Palmerston gun Matthew Dennis will have to be the number one once again, with the goal threat of Alwyn Davey and Kyle Emery working a charm up forward recently. Waratah has been more even across the board this year, with Kim Kantilla a constant in front of goal alongside Samuel Weddell, while Abraham Ankers and Nicholas Gooch provide solidity up the field. With big finals implications on the line either way, the stars of the show will have to stand up, and it may well be that the ones who shine brightest will help their side over the line.

LADDER leaders, Southern Districts and Nightcliff all but consolidated the top two spots with six rounds remaining in the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) Men’s Premier League. The Crocs and Tigers hold a 16-point lead and considerable percentage over the rest of the competition. Waratah and Tiwi Bombers gained vital wins and percentage in their respective victories, while Darwin will hope to bounce back next weekend after likely erasing any chance of snaffling second before finals.

In the match of the round, second placed Nightcliff took home the four points against a gallant Darwin Buffaloes, likely locking up a top two spot in the process. Despite trailing by seven points at the first break, a three goals to zero second term resulted in the Tigers regaining the lead by the main break. Both teams could only manage two goals for the rest of the game, while the Buffaloes would have rued their five behinds in the final term, having opportunities to hit the front but not capitalising and going down by 14 points. Micheal Hagan booted four goals in a terrific effort up forward for the winners, while former Port Adelaide forward, John Butcher booted two, and Danny Butcher was named the Tigers’ best. For the Buffaloes, Darryl White was the only multiple goal scorer, while young gun and AFL hopeful, Malcolm Rosas again starred in defeat, with the teenager named Darwin’s top player in the loss, while Ryan O’Sullivan was also consistent in defeat.

Waratah made its opportunities count in front of goal in a vital 30-point win over St Marys. The four points elevated the Warriors to within striking distance of the third placed Buffaloes, while also adding a four-point breathing space to Palmerston Magpies who had a disappointing loss to Tiwi Bombers on the weekend. Kim Kantilla was the danger in front of goal, booting three of his side’s 11 majors, as Sam Weddell slotted two. Unfortunately for the Saints, they could not seem to buy a goal in the first half, registering just one from 11 scoring shots to be 18 points behind despite having two more scoring opportunities. Shaun Edwards was the only multiple goal scorer for the Saints, while Ben Rioli and veteran, Raphael Clarke were the losing side’s best.

Ladder leaders, Southern Districts had to fight for a half against cellar dwellers, Wanderers before eventually shaking the Eagles off in the second half. Leading by two points at quarter time and eight points at half-time, the Crocs piled on 11 goals to three in the second half – including seven goals to one in the final term – to run away with the comfortable 56-point victory. The final scoreline did not reflect the Eagles’ intent in the first half as they took it up to the premiership favourites. Will Farrer was the dominant goal kicker for the winners, booting four goals, while Dylan McLachlan was named among the best for his two majors. Dual West Australian Football League (WAFL) premiership player, Rory O’Brien and teenager, Beau Schwarze were named the Crocs best in a match which saw Southern Districts finish with 10 individual goal kickers. The Eagles had six individual goal kickers, with Daniel Weetra and Jayden Eldridge highlighted for their strong performances despite the defeat.

Tiwi Bombers have kept their finals hopes alive with a terrific 32-point victory over fifth placed Palmerston Magpies. In what was a high-scoring affair, the Bombers were always in control, booting six goals in the opening term and keeping the Magpies at arms-length throughout the contest. The talented goalsneak who received a Rookie Me Combine invitation last year, Adam Tipungwuti put on a show with five majors, while the experienced Ross Tungatalum slotted four majors and was named among the best with Jason Puruntatameri. For the Magpies, Kyle Emery, Alwyn Davey and Samuel Talbot booted 10 goals between them and were all named among the best, with Matthew Dennis determined to be Palmerston’s top player on the day, also slotting one major in the contest.

LADDER leaders, Southern Districts and Nightcliff all but consolidated the top two spots with six rounds remaining in the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) Men’s Premier League. The Crocs and Tigers hold a 16-point lead and considerable percentage over the rest of the competition. Waratah and Tiwi Bombers gained vital wins and percentage in their respective victories, while Darwin will hope to bounce back next weekend after likely erasing any chance of snaffling second before finals.

In the match of the round, second placed Nightcliff took home the four points against a gallant Darwin Buffaloes, likely locking up a top two spot in the process. Despite trailing by seven points at the first break, a three goals to zero second term resulted in the Tigers regaining the lead by the main break. Both teams could only manage two goals for the rest of the game, while the Buffaloes would have rued their five behinds in the final term, having opportunities to hit the front but not capitalising and going down by 14 points. Michael Hagan booted four goals in a terrific effort up forward for the winners, while former Port Adelaide forward, John Butcher booted two, and Danny Butcher was named the Tigers’ best. For the Buffaloes, Darryl White was the only multiple goal scorer, while young gun and AFL hopeful, Malcolm Rosas again starred in defeat, with the teenager named Darwin’s top player in the loss, while Ryan O’Sullivan was also consistent in defeat.

Waratah made its opportunities count in front of goal in a vital 30-point win over St Marys. The four points elevated the Warriors to within striking distance of the third placed Buffaloes, while also adding a four-point breathing space to Palmerston Magpies who had a disappointing loss to Tiwi Bombers on the weekend. Kim Kantilla was the danger in front of goal, booting three of his side’s 11 majors, as Sam Weddell slotted two. Unfortunately for the Saints, they could not seem to buy a goal in the first half, registering just one from 11 scoring shots to be 18 points behind despite having two more scoring opportunities. Shaun Edwards was the only multiple goal scorer for the Saints, while Ben Rioli and veteran, Raphael Clarke were the losing side’s best.

Ladder leaders, Southern Districts had to fight for a half against cellar dwellers, Wanderers before eventually shaking the Eagles off in the second half. Leading by two points at quarter time and eight points at half-time, the Crocs piled on 11 goals to three in the second half – including seven goals to one in the final term – to run away with the comfortable 56-point victory. The final scoreline did not reflect the Eagles’ intent in the first half as they took it up to the premiership favourites. Will Farrer was the dominant goal kicker for the winners, booting four goals, while Dylan McLachlan was named among the best for his two majors. Dual West Australian Football League (WAFL) premiership player, Rory O’Brien and teenager, Beau Schwarze were named the Crocs best in a match which saw Southern Districts finish with 10 individual goal kickers. The Eagles had six individual goal kickers, with Daniel Weetra and Jayden Eldridgehighlighted for their strong performances despite the defeat.

Tiwi Bombers have kept their finals hopes alive with a terrific 32-point victory over fifth placed Palmerston Magpies. In what was a high-scoring affair, the Bombers were always in control, booting six goals in the opening term and keeping the Magpies at arms-length throughout the contest. The talented goalsneak who received a Rookie Me Combine invitation last year, Adam Tipungwuti put on a show with five majors, while the experienced Ross Tungatalum slotted four majors and was named among the best with Jason Puruntatameri. For the Magpies, Kyle Emery, Alwyn Daveyand Samuel Talbot booted 10 goals between them and were all named among the best, with Matthew Dennisdetermined to be Palmerston’s top player on the day, also slotting one major in the contest.